What modern name is the city of Helsingfors. Open the left Helsinki menu

02.04.2020

sights

Guide

Helsinki is the capital of Finland. The city is located in the south of the country on the shore Finnish Gulf. Helsinki is located on an area of \u200b\u200b1140 square meters and includes 315 islands; Moreover, a third of the city occupy parks and open areas. Important for all Finland has the largest Helsinki port in the country, through which cargo pass and from where regular passenger flights are performed throughout Baltic.

Helsinki was founded on the order of the Swedish king Gustav Vase in 1550. By its decree, several hundred inhabitants of the city of Porvo settled on the territory of the current city district Arabia. June 12, the day of signing the decree is considered the birthday of the city. Up to mid-XVIII century, Helsinki remained a small town. But in 1748, the construction of the Fortress Sveaborg (Suomenlinna), designed to protect the city from the sea, was started on the islands near Helsinki. As a result, Helsinki began to grow and rich.

Four times for their short history Helsinki was captured by Russian troops. After the joining of Finland to Russia in 1809, the city, destroyed by the Russian-Swedish war, was built up on the new General Plan Y. A. Erenstram on behalf of Emperor Alexander I, hence the noticeable similarity of the central parts of Helsinki and St. Petersburg. The current Helsinki is not only the legal capital of the country, but also the center of intellectual, cultural and scientific life of Finland.

The center of Helsinki is the Senate Square in the framework of majestic buildings, which is a single ampir ensemble. In the center of the square there is a monument to Emperor Alexander Second, the Lutheran Cathedral is tested above the square, the main building of the Helsinki University, the University Library and the Palace of the State Council are located. A hundred meters from the Senate Square, on the very seashore there is a market square (cowpactimari) - the brightest and busy place in Helsinki. The most interesting sights of the city - Palace Finland, chopped in the cliff in the Teppelinaucio Square, Monument to Sibelius, Assumption Cathedral. Olympic Stadium I. new palace Operas. Trendy and prestigious shops are focused on the most lively shopping street of the city - Esplanade, which begins on the seaside of the trading area.

Today Helsinki is modern city With a lively business and cultural life, where almost 70 museums, a large number of art galleries, excellent concert halls, a national opera and ballet, 3 symphony orchestra, 8 theaters.

Helsinki changes the appearance depending on the time of year, but he acquires the greatest attractiveness in the summer. The tourist season - from mid-June to mid-August. At this time, many attractions, museums prolong the visiting hours.

The Helsinki does not feel a shortage of fashionable stores selling furs, textiles, ceramics, glass and jewelry, wood objects, handmade products, furniture and other works of Finnish design. The main shopping streets of the city are: Mannerheiminitie, Kaisaniemenkatu, Aleksanterinkatu with large department stores and shopping centers; Pohjois-Esplanadi and ETELA-ESPLANADI with many "fashionable" stores and boutiques selling the items of Finnish design; Fredrikinkatu and Korkeavuorenkatu with interesting small shops; It is also worth walking along the pedestrian streets of Mikonkatu and ISO Roobertinkatu.

Finnish nightclubs are institutions for a respectable public who loving diverse and comfortably spend time. In nightclubs there is always a restaurant, bar, dance, sometimes billiard or card tables, roulette. Without weekends, "Casino Ray" works - the only international casino in Finland.

Helsinki - the capital of Finland, one of the most nordic countries of our huge world. Personally, I like that the city is located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, because maritime cities carry their marine charm. Helsinki is considered one of the safest cities and is among the top ten most favorable cities for life. The city itself produces a two-way impression on tourists, and it was the impression that he made me: On the one hand, the European capital, not deprived of cultural delights, the city, full of greenery and parks, sea \u200b\u200bportwhere you can admire the infinite number of all sorts of yachts. On the other hand, Helsinki is a very quiet city, where stores and museums are closed early, where you can not meet a single person at 4 o'clock in the afternoon.

As I have already managed to say, it was a two-way impression on me this city was produced at the first visit. I was surprised by silence and delicious and amazed by the purity of the city and the beauty of green parks.

Helsinki I visited in early June, although it was not lucky with the weather: all the time stayed was pretty overcast and rainy, but even it did not spoil the impression. Sometimes the other beauty of the terrain opens in the rain. That is what happened when I was in Helsinki: admiring the seaport during the rain, I caught myself on the thoughts about the adventures of the navigators who often had to fight in bad weather. This comparison also brought the charm's notes to my trip by Helsinki.

I want to notice that Helsinki is although a rather big city, it is possible to see his main attractions in just a couple of days. So let's go with you on a little journey through this wonderful place.

Short video about Helsinki

How to get

Helsinki is located on the border with Russia, so there are enough ways to get to this northern city. Of course, you can use the plane: it is very convenient, and most importantly quickly. Also not excluded the train as a type of transport. Maritime travel lovers can use the ferry, as, for example, I did it.

But most budget option There will be a comfortable bus. As for the bus and ferry, these types of transport can be used, getting from St. Petersburg, so they will be suitable or residents of the Northern Capital, or those who want to go on a journey through it.

Plane

One of the most convenient ways to get to Helsinki will be a plane. Personally, I never flew to Helsinki on the plane, as I live in St. Petersburg and I believe that there is a more advantageous type of transport from Peter. But many of my friends prefer to get to Helsinki even from the cultural capital.

Of course, you will fly more convenient either from Moscow or from St. Petersburg. Let's consider each of the options.

From Saint-Petersburg

The direct flight to Helsinki daily (in the morning and in the evening) has FINNAIR, so any tourist will be able to pick up a convenient time for it. The price of the flight to one side will be 114 EUR per passenger. By the way, the time on the way is only 1 hour 5 minutes.

The most budget option for tourists will be airlines Air. Baltic, whose flights also fly every day, but in this case your flight will be with a transfer to Riga. A minimum transplant will be 2 hours. The cost of this ticket for one person begins from 79 EUR. I want to notice to visit Helsinki, you must have a valid Schengen visa. And if you suddenly choose a trip to Helsinki with a change in Riga and a transplant will be more than 5 hours, then you will be fine for a stroll along the capital of Latvia. Personally, I think it's great to combine one trip visiting two cities.

Also from St. Petersburg with a change in Moscow to the capital of Finland, you can get from Aeroflot. But this type of trip is the least profitable for travelers.

From Moscow

As for flights from Moscow, the direct flight - Helsinki also offers Finnair airlines every day at 12.50 Moscow time, and the cost of one passenger comes from 143 EUR one way. Time on the way will be 1 hour and 40 minutes.

It is worth noting that the most advantageous option for travelers will be flight from Moscow to Helsinki with a change in St. Petersburg. This flight is performed by Finnair airlines in conjunction with the airline S7 Airlines. The cost of this flight begins from 90 EUR.

See how much the flights to Helsinki to your dates will be.

How to get from the airport to the city center

Airplanes flying to Helsinki land at Vantaa International Airport (Helsinki-Vantaa), which is located in the suburbs of 11 kilometers from the city center. You can get from the airport to the city center in three ways: by bus, train or taxi.

It is obvious that the taxi will not be a budget way of movement. Travel to the city center will cost a tourist 40 EUR. But speed and comfort are provided: some half an hour and you are already in the center of the capital of Finland.

The Ring Rail Line train is one of the most convenient ways of movement from the airport to the city center. The price of the train - 5 EUR. On weekdays, trains go from 9 am to midnight, as well as in the range from 4 to 6 am. On weekends, the train goes from 5 am to 12 o'clock in the morning. Electric trail expectation - 10-20 minutes. The train departs from 2 platforms: 25 located in Terminal 2, and 12, located in Terminal 1.

Buses also drive off from platforms 25 and 12. Bus number 615 and the cost of travel is also 5 EUR, at night, the price increases to 7 EUR, for children from 7 to 16 years old there is a 50% discount. The bus runs almost around the clock with a break for 1 hour from 3 to 4 am.

By train

I, as an amateur travel, I find attractive any of the ways to get somewhere, but it just happened that it was in Helsinki that I never went to the train. I can safely say that the train is a popular type of transport for this direction.

From Moscow to Helsinki, the train runs every day at 23:10 Moscow time, departs from Leningrad Station. Such a trip will last 15 hours. In the opposite direction, the train departs at 17:23 local time. The price of one side ticket starts from 95 EUR. The cost as you can see is not the cheapest: everything is due to the fact that the train consists of some coupe of the first, second and business class.

From Saint-Petersburg high-speed train Allegro departs from the Finnish station, the trains in this area are running several times a day. The price begins from 62 EUR one way for sitting place. Time on the way is 3.5 hours.

As I mentioned, I have never traveled to Helsinki by train, but I know that Allegro is a very popular train among Petersburgers.

How to get from the station to the city center

Train Station In Helsinki is located in the very center of the city, so directly from there can already begin to inspect the sights.

Bus

Finnish I. international buses far follow We depart from the Central Bus Station (Linja Autoasema). The station is within walking distance of the Central Railway Station.

By bus in Helsinki you can go from St. Petersburg. It will be the most democratic way to travel. The fare from 12 EUR one way.

This type of movement is not only the most budget, but also very convenient. Buses go many times a day, and the duration of the trip will be from 6 hours. Personally, I have repeatedly used this way to get to Helsinki (I want to notice that this option is convenient for me, because I live in St. Petersburg). Flight buses do not stand in line at customs, so the border is very quickly.

Car

Car lubers can get to Helsinki by car. Of course, the easiest way will be reached by car from St. Petersburg. Distance is about 400 kilometers. You need to go along the E18 highway through the Customs Point Peathanovka. The route will be held through Sestroretsk, and Finnish cities and.

The main thing is to arrange the driver "Green Card". It should also be remembered that the cost of gasoline in Finland will be significantly higher than in Russia. In one direction, the motorist approximately leaves 24 EUR on gasoline.

From Moscow to Helsinki can be reached through.

Ferry

A steam is not just a convenient way of traveling, but is still a way to turn your journey to this adventure. It was the ferry that I first got to Helsinki. I will say honestly, I have impressions from this type of transport, I have a lot of impressions, starting with the type of a giant liner, ending with an unforgettable feeling when you stand on the deck, and in front of you, the sea, and you feel like a liner carries you along the waves.

In Helsinki, there is a ferry of the company St Peter Line. The exact schedule must be specified on the company's website. The time on the way is 14 hours, the ferry leaves from the maritime station at 19:00. The fare from 22 EUR.

St Peter Line also offers cruises during which you can see not only Helsinki, but also, Riga. Anyone can choose a cruise in the shower.

I also want to note that the first night on the ferry is very felt a pitching that can cause dizziness. It is with this that I encountered during the trip. Although I felt a hatching, but he moved it calmly. The only feeling that I had after I went to the shore, - the feeling of what so far I shakes on the waves, although I have already stood firmly on earth. Soon the feeling passed. Those who are poorly tolerant can ask the tablets from the doctor who is all the time with passengers on the ferry. Also on the ferry a lot of entertainment: shops, restaurants plus evening entertainment program.

Prompt:

Helsinki - time now

The difference in the clock:

Moscow 1.

Kazan 1.

Samara 2.

Ekaterinburg 3.

Novosibirsk 5.

Vladivostok 8.

When the season. When it is better to go

As I have already managed to write before, the first time I was in Helsinki in the summer at the beginning of June, and I was not lucky with the weather, because it was enough cloudy and rainy. Also, I was in Helsinki in winter, and in the fall, and I can safely say that every season has its own charm for this city.

Choose, of course, you, but personally, I advise you to travel to Helsinki or summer or the December winter to feel and impregnate by the festive atmosphere.

I want to stay in more detail on each of the seasons when you can visit Helsinki.

Helsinki in the summer

Helsinki in the summer - of course not for beach holidaysEven in despite the fact that the city is located at the Baltic Sea Finnish bay. To admire the sea scenery - yes, to go to swim and sunbathe - one hundred percent. In the summer in Helsinki, you need to go to enjoy the greens and the sea, inspect the sights, without thinking about the cold and that we are tired of carrying a warm sweatshirt, a coat and a scarf. In addition, a pleasant summer bonus for tourists: all museums, gallery closes a little later than the remaining seasons (by the way, in Helsinki, in principle everything closes pretty early).

It should be noted that the prices in the summer can be slightly higher for individual services than, for example, in autumn or in winter. But it does not prevent tourists to crowds and admire the city. With confidence I can say: summer is the most popular season among tourists. In general, Helsinki is beautiful in the summer, you can, for example, after a long walk around the city, arrange a picnic in some park and enjoy fresh air and greens around.

Yes, I was not lucky in early June with the weather. But it is worth remembering that Helsinki is a vertical Baltic city, where there is often windy and where the weather can be unpredictable: maybe +25 ° C with a bright sun, and maybe +10 ° C with strong wind and rain. But, nevertheless, I strongly recommend visitors this city in the summer.

Helsinki in autumn

Helsinki in the fall - of course, not for a picnic in the park, especially if we are talking about mid-October or November, although it may be extremes that cold have anything.

The first half of the autumn in Helsinki is a solid charm: the city turns into a red-yellow bedspread, and all due to the fact that there are a lot of trees, which in nature yellow yellow. True rains there are frequent in the fall, so it's not bad to take an umbrella with you, so as not to remain strain to the thread.

Personally, I fell into the Helsinki on rainy weather in the autumn, but here it is not going anywhere: the season is what it is. And if you do not want to mock in the rain, you can always walk on museums or look into a cozy cafe and drink a cup of coffee. You knew, by the way, that Finns simply adore coffee?

Helsinki in spring

Spring is generally a heyday: therefore Helsinki is transformed at this time of year. Of course, in March there is still a minus temperature, but in April, the hard plus will meet you on the street.

Without a doubt, the end of March, April - those months when the snow melts and from puddle and slaccoti is not going anywhere in Helsinki. But here May - already a decent month, in May, trees are covered with greens, and the weather allows the picnic to arrange, and summer verandas are already open to sit over a cup of coffee in the fresh air.

Personally, I want to visit Helsinki in May, first, because I love to watch how nature is transformed, secondly, in May, you still do not always have time to raise the prices of museums and galleries, thirdly, tourists still do not have time to smear with a huge stream, As it usually happens in the summer months.

Helsinki in winter

Winter is the second time of the year when Helsinki is beautiful than ever. In general, like a frequent visitor of Finland, I want to say that it is the winter country: the abundance of snow and satisfied with the soft winter temperature (-5-10 ° С) make Helsinki fabulous at this time. In addition, the city is transformed in winter thanks to the holidays. Already in early December, everything around is decorated: lights burn on the shop windows, everywhere of Santa's images, decorated with garlands and ordinary residents. Therefore, I advise you to go to Helsinki winter miracles to Helsinki: perhaps you will meet the Santa himself with a sledding deer.

Of course, the best winter month for a trip to Helsinki is December. It is in December that the city shines with multi-colored lights, and on the streets are full of New Year's fairs, where you can buy a couple of festive souvenirs. It was in December that a lot of tourists go to Helsinki: probably to charge a festive mood.

Helsinki - weather by month

Prompt:

Helsinki - weather by month

Areas. Where better live

Helsinki, unfortunately, cannot be called a budget place in terms of residence. Like the remaining Scandinavian capitals, the city is famous for quite high prices for hotels, hotels and restaurants.

As for a convenient area for living, then, probably, the most convenient place can be called railway Station area (1)That is located in the very center of the city and from him within walking distance are the main attractions and shops. It is this area of \u200b\u200bmy favorite in Helsinki. And it is there that I advise you to stop. In addition, it will be very convenient to live in the area to tourists who plan to leave for the city and view the surroundings, because the railway station is near and it is from there all suburban train.

By the way, as I mentioned above, an electric train runs from the airport to the station, which will also be convenient to tourists to seek Helsinki on the plane. But, perhaps, consider a little more than a place where you can stay.

Budget places

As I noted above, Helsinki is absolutely not a budget city in terms of housing. I am usually looking for, where to stay, on, there are often discounted offers. You can compare prices for hotels from different booking sites. Alternative option - rent private apartments. Such sentences can be looked.

Hostel is one of the most profitable options for economical tourists. Although prices are difficult to call democratic. During the day for two persons, the cost of living in the hostel begins from 55 EUR. Such a price offers, for example, Eurohostel, located in the city center (2).

Of course, if you are traveling to Helsinki for a day or two, you can try to use the CarSSU service. Honestly, herself never tried this service, but the reviews heard a lot of positive. I think, and I will need to try this way of staying in some new city.

Middle class

In Helsinki hotels from 60 to 100 EUR per night for 2 people a lot. Can be found in the very center of the city (2), where everything will be at hand. You can also find a camping option on the outskirts and be, as they say, closer to nature. For 100-150 EUR you can also afford the apartment.

More expensive

What, so dear hotels In Helsinki, even debt. Here and the hotel with 4 stars of the Holiday Inn, where the night will be asked from 150 EUR. And Hotel Radisson Blue Plaza, and Hilton Helsinki. In general, the taste and color for each tourist, that even the most picky will be able to find a place of residence to taste.

Personal experience

In general, Helsinki is a city quiet, safe and calm, and can be shared altogether anywhere. It is believed that if you want to settle in a very quiet place, then you should choose the area Krushunhak (3)which is very close to the center. But I still think that it is best to live somewhere near the railway station.

What are the prices for rest

As I have already written above: Helsinki is not a budget capital, so to save, you need to try. But I want to say that all times when I visited Helsinki, I did not spend a lot of money, perhaps this is because I went on foot absolutely everywhere. My golden rule: you will never see as much beautiful if, traveling around the city, you will always move on transport. Therefore, dear tourists, go and admire, then you do not have to get out of the expensive taxi. By the way, a taxi in Helsinki costs a lot. The price depends on the kilometer, and on the number of passengers, and from the day of the week, and on the time of day. The cost of the trip on weekdays until 8 pm will start from 6 EUR for landing, on holidays and at night from 9 EUR. In addition, the Finns always take money for the simple.

As for the residence, I said about it above: prices per night start from 50 EUR. But you should not despair, you can save, for example, to feed. No, no, you do not think, I will not make you starve, just want to give a couple of tips, how not to leave in a restaurant (lunch from 40 EUR per person) or a cafe (dinner from 20 EUR) all your money.

If we consider with you the warm season (late spring, summer or early autumn), then you should remember that picnics are very popular in Helsinki. I assure you when you come to any park, you will see a lot of people who are all the time for the picnic. Buy food in a supermarket for a picnic will be cheaper at times, and it will be much more impressions.

Now consider the option for those who, for one reason or another, does not like picnics or arrived in the cold season.

In Helsinki, there are a lot of inexpensive restaurants in which the buffet system operates. That is, 10 EUR per person can be saturated for the whole day. Such restaurants, for example, are in the Kampii shopping center.

You can save on sights. Immediately I want to say that you do not need to buy a map of the city: you can take it for free at the airport or any hotels.

The cost of visiting the museum begins from 5 to 15 EUR per person. If you are traveling together or threesome, there will be a little more expensive to visit many museums. But I advise you to pay attention to the fact that on some days museums can be visited completely free.

The Museum of Art Ateneum and the Museum of Contemporary Kiasma Art can be visited completely free of charge in each first environment of the month from 17:30 to 20:00. On all Tuesday you can enter the Museum of Culture from 17:00 to 20:00, and at the art museum, free entry every Friday from 11:00 to 16:00. Therefore, if you eat in Helsinki for a week, you can successfully plan your time. Personally, I was at the Kiasma Museum and I advise everyone to go there.

In general, up to 18 years old entrance to the museum is completely free, and after 65 you can buy a ticket with a big discount. A visit to the cathedrals is free, so if you do not get on a good day for the museum, you can just walk and enjoy, looking into the cathedrals on the road. Personally, I am for such an option to walk through Helsinki.

Prompt:

The cost of food, accommodation, transport and other things

Currency: euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub

Main attractions. What to see

Helsinki is a pantry attractions, and I will love to share with you, which is worth seeing there.

Suppose you, like me, are not indifferent to the area of \u200b\u200bthe main railway station, and it is from there that you want to start the inspection of the most beautiful places in the city. I will say right: do not be lazy and walk on foot towards the Senate Square. Do not spend money on the passage, but beautiful places Look - for a tourist is a huge plus.

Remember that visiting the existing cathedrals is absolutely free pleasure, so go inside the Cathedral located right on the Senate Square. Also there always walks a lot of chaps, which can be fed. Personally, I laughed very long as one kid ran after a very large seagull, which for some reason did not fly away, but just escaped from him.

Switch away from free attractions, such as Sveoborg Fortress or Somelinna (in the photo below), the place of truth memorable and attracting the attention of tourists.

Kallio district - perfect place For hiking: there are a lot of shops, restaurants and much more, so you can take a walk there in order to buy something, but just to see.

Why not arrange a picnic if the weather, of course, allows? As I mentioned, there are a lot of parks in Helsinki, where you can have a snack, and just stroll. I am sure that just walking around the city, you will meet many parks, one of the most popular park - Central Park (another name of the park - Kaiveopyism), a place that does not leave any tourist indifferent.

Top 5.

Helsinki is a lot of great and attractions there. I highlighted the 5 mostst places that exactly worth visiting.

Senate square

I have already mentioned about her a little, but I want to tell a little more detailed.

In 1812, Helsinki proclaimed the capital Finland PrinceThat is why the architect Karl Ludwig Engel was called for the design of the central square.

On the square often carry out different events: for example, meet New Year. And on December 13, the Day of Lucia is celebrated, the queen of light, which is chosen and then honored.

Directly on the square there is a monument to Alexander II, which the Finns loved and respected, because it was with him that the Finnish language received the status of the state and in Finland had its own currency - Mark.

If you put on the staircase of the cathedral and turn your back to it, then on the left you will see the building of the State Council, where the Senate was previously located (hence the name of the square), to the right you will see the University building, which reminds the appearance of the Council building. After all, both buildings are made by the same German architect Engel.

Assumption Cathedral

This cathedral made a huge impression on me: he is so eclipsed that he wants to get around from all sides and look at all the angles. In general, the cathedral was built in 1868 and is still considered the largest Orthodox Cathedral in Europe.

This cathedral personifies everything that is Russian, which remained from Russia in Finland, the Russian spirit is so buzzing when you walk in the Assumption Cathedral. The service takes place in the Cathedral mainly at the Finnish and Church-Slavic language.

Helsinki Railway Station

And again he is the railway station. In almost every point, I mention it: and live near him well, and walk, and get at least to any place. And I think it is perfect place Travel starts in Helsinki. If you carefully look at the station, it can be seen how surprising is his architecture: the granite building is decorated with statues of Atlanta, ferro-shaped lanterns, which are almost all the time burn.

The station was built by the Finnish architect in 1914 by Eliel Salinen. But the building has become a full-fledged railway station only in 1919, because during the First World War I was a military hospital station

Park Kaiveopyism

This is the next place that is worth visiting and which is beautiful at any time of the year. The raisin of the park is that the park is located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, so it is doubly scenic place, full of not only greens, lawns and trails, but also by sea. Also in the park a lot of big and expensive mansions, which were built in the 19th century by Russians to come to rest.

Today, buildings no longer belong to our citizens: they are the embassies different countries. Astronomy lovers are simply obliged to visit the Ursa Observatory, which is located in the park itself. This place is even a park difficult to call, this is a real forest with a length of 10 kilometers. For me, as a lovers of hiking, there was a real paradise walking along a green clean park, where everyone is engaged in his business: someone rides a bike, someone runs, someone does not rush strolling, as I did, and who That suits the picnic. In general, the park is multifunctional.

Caucopatori

Caucupatori Square, which is called the old trading area and tourism center in Helsinki, is another favorite place. In the summer it is a 90th year for shopping and walking, and in winter - a real Christmas fair that infects the festive mood. At the square, all sorts of festivals and fairs are often held, for example, a solester festival on which the people have fun already from 1594. Fishermen from all edges of Finland and not only come to this event, and it will be possible to buy a herring in all sorts of recipes.

Old shopping horse works all days a week from May to September, and in the winter Sunday - a day off, but it does not prevent Finns and tourists to visit the Christmas market on other days. Near the square are the most significant buildings of Helsinki: the Supreme Court, the City Hall and the President's Residence.

Personally, I advise you to buy souvenirs on Caugtor Square.

Churches and temples. What are you worth a visit

Cathedral of St. Nicholas

I have already told you about the Senate Square, the main square of Helsinki, on which one of the most beautiful temples of the city is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas. White massive building rises on the square and attracts the attention of tourists, thus, and my attention was drawn to this cathedral. Now this is a snow-white building - the Lutheran Church, but it was built under Nicolae I in the middle of the 19th century, when the Principality of Finland was part of the Russian Empire. The Cathedral is called St. Nicholas, because he was consecrated in his honor, and besides St. Nicholas was the patron saint of Nicholas I. When he received his independence, the cathedral was renamed to a large church, now the temple is called just the Helsinki Cathedral.

For the first time, seeing the cathedral, I, as a resident of St. Petersburg, simply could not not find the similarities of this temple with St. Isaac's Cathedral. It turns out that both cathedrals were built at about one time. Now the White Temple attracts crowds of tourists, so you do not pass by and be sure to go inside.

Assumption Cathedral

The next temple, standing, I also mentioned, is the Assumption Cathedral, the operating Orthodox Church. The temple was built in the Nevitizanister style by the Russian architect A.M. Gornostayev. I want to say that this cathedral is my favorite in Helsinki.

Temple in the rock

The next church, which I strongly advise you to visit, is unique and unusual in its appearance, it is called the Church of Tempeliaukio. Imagine, this temple is located in a rock, and the dome of the temple is glass. This church is Lutheran, it was built in 1969 by the Finnish architects by Somomalaisy brothers. The brothers originated an unusual idea: they decided that the preservation of nature was the most important task, so they thought to cut the temple in the rock. Of course, there are no windows in the church, but thanks to the glass dome, the temple is well consecrated. In that unique place Not only worships are held, but also concerts of organ music, because, as they say, the acoustics in this place are truly amazing. Unfortunately, this temple remained without my attention, but the next time I will definitely visit this place.

Church of John

But the Church of John was the first attraction, which I saw and with which was photographed in Helsinki. Personally, she reminded me a little reminded the Cathedral of the Paris's Mother of God, although many, perhaps, would not agree with me. This Lutheran church was built at the end of the 19th century on a hill, where many centuries were celebrated before the construction of John the Baptist. The height of the temple, together with spiers, is 74 meters, so it will not be noticed it impossible. Be sure to go inside the church, and perhaps you are lucky, just like me and you listen to beautiful worship service.

Church of Callio.

Also interesting to visit, I consider the Lutheran Church of Callio, the height of which is as much as 94 meters. This building is visible almost from anywhere in the city. This temple does not look classic at all, it is built in the style of Modern and, perhaps, not every tourist will coal his beauty, as I did. But I want to note that the severity of this building introduces incredible variety and uniqueness to the general flavor of Helsinki.

At least three of the churches mentioned by me are: they are so different that it looks out each other, you will unleash something new for yourself. The advantage will be what it is completely free!

Museums and galleries. What should I visit?

I will give a small list of museums who really worth visiting and where you will not feel that I spent time and money in vain.

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

I will start with the place that I visited myself and which I really liked, - Museum of Modern Art of Kiasma. Immediately, I note that the cost of a ticket is 12 EUR per person, but under 18 years old museum can be visited completely free, for pensioners there is also a discount (the ticket will cost 8 EUR), and on the first Friday of the month, the museum charges with visitors to the board. It is worth remembering that Monday is a day off, on the rest of the days it works until 17.00 and from Wednesday to Friday to 20.30.

Medium level

Ravintola Kuu (full lunch will cost 25 EUR).
Konstant Molja (very tasty East Karelian cuisine).
Restaurant lappi.
Karl Fazer Cafe.
Kapelli.

Holidays

Helsinki is a city where, in principle, all stores are closed early, and on holidays do not work so at all (it is worth knowing). In Helsinki holidays a lot: I'll tell you about the most interesting.

Father's Day

On the second Sunday of November - shops and department stores are closed, white flags with a blue cross are hung everywhere, on this day a celebrating day of the Father. Wonderful holiday when dads get congratulations! By the way, it is very interesting that when a child is born in Finland, the father has a two-month paid vacation. In Finland, this holiday has been celebrated for 50 years.

Sonya Day

On July 27, an amazing and unusual holiday is celebrated in Helsinki - Sony's Day. The history of the holiday leaves as much as in 1652, when the legend brothers Ephesus slept 200 years. This day in Helsinki is very funny: at 7 am, the main Sonya is thrown into the water, and in 9 it begins the parade of the Song, to which you need to come in pajamas. Also on this day, 13 EUR can be visited by the presidential residence.

Christmas and New Year

But the greatest holidays are Christmas and New Year. At this time, all the streets are decorated with all sorts of garlands, houses of houses are glowing, and on the streets are full of festive fairs. The city is decorated on the last week of November, but it is worth remembering that on December 24 and 25 (in Christmas) all the shops are closed. And on December 13, the city of Lucia is celebrated in the city when Lucia with candles goes to the Senate Square. And if you are lucky to celebrate New Year in the Northern Capital, I advise you to come to the Senate Square, where you usually arrange a magnificent show with songs, dancing, bright lights.

Safety. What to beware is worth

I already wrote about this, but I repeat once again: I consider Helsinki one of the safest cities in the world. Personally, all the time I was in this city, I did not notice the other. Yes, I want to say that I traveled to Helsinki with my young man, and all the time we spent there together, but never once we saw no drunks on the street, no other disgraces.

The city is generally dying in the evening, and you can hardly meet a lot of people. I also want to say that the police are very closely following everything that is happening in the city: for example, if a rally passes, the police do not overclock it (all rallies in the city are more than peaceful), but simply look after the protesters. In general, I studied information about crimes in Helsinki, so I can say that the crime rate is minimal. Therefore, you should not be afraid of this city: it is safe!

Things to do

For those who are tired of museums and galleries, I can advise some beautiful places for outdoor activities:

Helsinki is a great place to rent a bike and move on it. The city has a huge number of tracks for cyclists, and you can rent a bike anywhere in the city. Many hotels offer free bicycles, you can also use public bikes in just 2 EUR.

Fans of marine adventures (namely, such people should ride in Helsinki) there is a great opportunity to rent a kayak. Great place for this Natura Viva. Rent a boat for 2 hours will cost 18 EUR.

Shopping and shops

Helsinki is a great place for shopping, I myself, when I come, I just can not resist not to run shopping. I'll tell you about the most popular places:

Personally, I adore the Kamppi shopping center, about which I have already written: you can eat there, and buy yourself a couple of things. In this center, a huge number of shops for every taste and color: Mango, Calvin Klein Jeans, Esprit, Moda, Jack & Jones, Marc O'Polo and many-many others. On weekdays, the center works until 21:00, on Saturday until 19:00, and on Sunday until 18:00 (on holidays it is necessary to specify how much KAMPPI is broken).
Jumbo Shopping Center is located near the airport and is one of the largest shopping and entertainment centers of Finland. In this place, you can also buy things, and food in hypermarkets (there are two there are two), and send children to the amusement park. By the way, parking for 5 hours free. The center is open until 21:00 and only on Sunday to 18:00. But hypermarkets work until 23:00.
The Forum shopping center is also a great place for shopping. And the advantage of this complex will be that it is a museum of arts, so a great option to combine pleasant with useful!
And those who love dear and high-quality brands should visit the Esplanad Gallery. There are not there are not many shops there: 40 boutiques and designer shops. Here you can find the following firms: Hugo Boss, Michel Cors, Mi.No, Lorna Jane, Gemmy, Furla. Of course, the goods in this gallery are limited, but the weight is exclusive.

Bars. Where to go

HEMINGWAY BAR;
Bar Loose;
Brewdog;
SPORTS ACADEMY;
Shot Bar.

Clubs and nightlife

I want to note immediately that Helsinki is not a city of nightlife, and go in search of a club to come off to complete, it's not worth it. Although, of course, and the northern capital you can find places to dance enough.

Classic place Helsinki's nightlife is a club Teatteri.. The club is on three floors: you can dine on one, to drink on the other, on the third to go to dance. This place is not cheap, there can often be found by NHL stars. From Monday to Thursday, the club works until 4:00 am, from Friday to Sunday - until 5:00 in the morning.
Lady Moon.- A small club for fun. But there is a small condition: you should be 24 to visit this institution. Club works daily from 21:00 to 04:00.
Kuudes Linja. "Great place for those who like to have fun not for ordinary music: after all, there are dancing under electric, rock and techno, also in the club often plays live music. The club works in all days except Monday.

The following clubs are also suitable for restless fun:

Tavastia Klubi;
The Circus;
Apollo Life;
Kaarle XII;

Extreme sports

From extreme sports in Helsinki, snowboarding and skiing are developed. Snowboarding lovers are simply obliged to visit:

Kivikko Park.. It must be remembered that the park begins to work in the second half of December. It works from Monday to Friday from 16:00 to 21:00, from Saturday to Sunday from 11:00 to 20:00. A ticket for the whole day costs 12 EUR, you can also take a lesson with an instructor for 55 EUR, which will last 100 minutes.

Skiing can be ride outside the city: ski center Alhovorui, Sollar Svalla Svighill Ski Center, Peuramaa Center. And in the city on skis, you can ride in the Central Park.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

How is it to visit the new city and come back with empty hands? We just have not accepted. In this regard, I did not think about a long time in Helsinki, but bought the fridge magnets with the main attractions, and my young man bought himself a flag of Finland (he buys himself in each new countryIn which we come, the flag).

In general, the products are usually driven products, especially fish. For fish, it is best to go to the Kaupatori area: products there are always fresh, my mom in Helsinki is always only there. The cost is different from the type of fish, usually asked 3-4 EUR per kilogram.
Also from Helsinki love to bring Finnish national hats, usually friends are delighted with such a gift. There is a hat from 10 EUR.

In general, that it is better to bring a gift from Finland, it is better to read or.

How to move around the city

As I said, I just adore walking, and hikingI think - the best way of movement, a way to help learn any city is better. But I know that not everyone loves to walk a lot, so I will tell you about ways to move around the city.

The most popular modes of transport are trams and buses. Travel costs 3.20 EUR. Those who are confident that there will be a lot of ride, it is worth buying Helsinki Card, the value of which depends on how many days you get this card: a 24 hour card costs 44 EUR. The metro in Helsinki is, but is considered less popular transport from tourists.

There is also the opportunity to use the tourist bus service. Every day, the Helsinki Expert bus leaves from Esplanada Park at 11:00. The ticket costs 29 EUR. The bus is passing on the main attractions. The exact schedule depends on the season, and therefore it is better to watch it.

Return to Helsinki Card, this card will not only give you the opportunity to travel for free for free, but also free to ride tourist bus With audihyda, free to get to the Fortress of Sveoborg for free, as well as for free to visit many museums (for example, the Ateneuum Museum, the National Museum of Finland, the Design Museum, etc.).

Taxi. What features exist

To use a taxi in Helsinki is very simple: all machines have a special TAKSI sign, if it burns brightly, then the car is free. In general, there are a lot of cars in the city, but you can also order a taxi by number 0100 0700, also by SMS 13170. But it is worth knowing that when ordering a taxi by phone, you will take 1.17 EUR for the call, and if you order a taxi by SMS, then The text should be in Finnish.

The price of a taxi trip depends on several factors, the time of day, the day of the week, the number of passengers. First you pay for the landing (on weekdays until 20.00 6 EUR, on holidays 9 EUR), then 1 km. Take from 1.5 to 2.1 EUR (depending on the time of day, at night, of course, more expensive). Also the price will increase by the number of people. The airport to the center of Helsinki will cost 40 EUR. In any taxi there is a special meter, which at the end of the trip will issue a check. Not in all taxis accept credit cards, so if you want to pay for a credit card, then check with a taxi driver, whether it takes credit cards.

It is also worth knowing that in a taxi you can not smoke.

Trams

As I noted, trams are a convenient way of movement in Helsinki. The city has 13 trams lines, the passage costs 3.20 EUR. The most popular routes are 3B and 3T, they are called tourist, so to inspect all the main attractions sit on the tram number 3.

Metro

The metro in Helsinki is completely small, so it is not as popular as among the locals and among tourists. The subway was open in 1982. It opens at 5:30 am and closes at 23:00. Trains want with periodicity of 4 minutes, and it is worthwhile in the automatic machine 2.20 EUR, schoolchildren acts a discount half.

Buses

Buses are also popular among Helsinki residents, but in comparison with trams that run throughout the city center and in the most important attractions, buses go to more distant distances, to areas where you can not reach the tram. Most buses depart from the station square, the interval between buses is 15-20 minutes. And the fare as in the tram - 3.20 EUR.

Transport rental

I am a person without driver's license and has never been rented a car, but I know that there are many companies offering cars for rent in Helsinki. Compare prices and get acquainted with the terms of the lease.

In general, motorists should know that the cost of gasoline in Helsinki is higher than in Russia: about 1.5 EUR costs 95 gasoline and about 1.6 - 98. Approximately 90 EUR you can rent a good car for 3 days.

I can give the following advice to motorists:

Do not break the rules! Penalties will not cost you fiscal: for example, not an adheated belt - 70 EUR.
Remember the speed limit (50 km / h settlement).
There are many expensive parking lots in Helsinki: the average cost of 3 EUR.
You may not worry because of paid roads: Foreign motorists do not have to pay, if you rented a car in Helsinki.

Helsinki - rest with children

Of course, I advise you to go to Helsinki with children: Very often I meet tourists who came with children. Of course, I think that art galleries are unlikely to be interested in a 4-5-year-old child, but there is much more to captivate the baby and his parents!

First, remember the museum of natural science, where not only you can walk and watch, but also touch. Such interactive entertainment will accurately take a child. Secondly, if you visit Helsinki in the warm season, then arrange a picnic together in the park and run the air snake: I'm confident, a great pastime is guaranteed. Third, why not go with a child in the oceanarium? In Helsinki, the tourists of all ages like this place. Adult entrance - 16 EUR, children - 12 EUR, and up to 3 years old. It is also worth remembering that there are children's entertainmentmen in any shopping center.

You can also visit the water park (up to 4 years old) or amusement park (ticket for a whole day 37 EUR), where not only children, but also adults will be fun.

In general, I believe that the time you can go to Helsinki and children!

Ski rest

I repeat once again: Helsinki is the North city, and winter fun are developed in this place, as anywhere else.

Ski holiday is not in the city itself, but in its surroundings. I will present you the most popular places for this sport:

Ski pass

Tickets for lifts are purchased at the resort where are going to ride from the mountains. For example, if you decide to go to the Vihti Ski resort, the cost of the lift for 2 hours will be 26 EUR, for the whole day - 32 EUR.

In the previous paragraph, I indicated the three most popular ski resort Helsinki, so the cost of the lift is better to clarify on the site, because Information may change.

Tracks

Immediately I want to say that the ski holiday in Helsinki is suitable for absolutely everyone: and an avid snowboardist, and a novice who has never conquered a single slope. Everyone ski resort The tracks of different levels of difficulty:

For example, SwingHill has 4 tracks: racing, maneuverable, children's and family. Also, Serena SKI offers complicated, light and medium descents. But if you feel what you want more extreme and zador, then go to Vihti Ski and conquer a slope of 650 meters.
Vihti SKI - the largest ski resort from me Listed: Assessing 12 different descents that you can conquer! By the way, the bus for 39 EUR goes between Helsinki and this resort, which departs daily at 09.15 from the Central Railway Station.

In general, I consider Helsinki winter city, so, probably, it's great to come and see the city and ski ride.

Helsinki (Fin. Helsinki; Helsingfors or Helsingfors - Swede HelsingFors) - the capital and largest city of Finland, administrative center Province of Ousimaa. Located in the south of the country, on the shore of the Finnish Bay of the Baltic Sea. Population 578 126 people (03/31/2009). Foreign citizens account for about 10% of the population of the city.

Helsinki, together with satellite cities, Vantaa, Espoo and Kauniainen forms a capital region with a population of more than a million people. The population of Big Helsinki, the territory of which includes 12 communes, exceeds 1,300,000 people.

Helsinki is the center of business, education, culture and science in Finland. In the Big Helsinki there are 8 universities and 6 technological parks. 70% of foreign companies operating in Finland are located in the metropolitan region. Immigration of rural residents makes Helsinki one of the fastest growing municipal districts in Europe.

The main international airport in Finland is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, located 20 kilometers from the center of the capital and carrying out straight flights around the world. The path from Helsinki to Tallinn takes 1.5 hours by sea and 18 minutes by helicopter. In two others major cities, Tampere and Turku, you can get in 1.5-2 hours by train and 1.5-2.5 hours by car.

In early 2009, Helsinki began to think about an opportunity accession to the capital cities of Vantaa. March 30, 2009 City Council Vantaa agreed to fulfill the review of the Helsinki project of a possible association. The Council stressed that the review does not provide for the cessation of the city's existence.

History

Swedish board

Based on the Swedish king Gustavom Vaz in 1550. According to his decree, several hundred residents of the city of Porvo settled on the territory of the current city district Arabia. June 12, the day of signing the decree is considered the birthday of the city.

However, it turned out that the place was chosen unsuccessfully - the harbor was too small, and as a result, the city was transferred to the area of \u200b\u200bthe current Caucpatori (Market Square).

Up until the mid-XVIII century, Helsinki remained small, completely a wooden city, the plague epidemics often broke out.

In 1748, the construction of the fortress of Svetarg was launched on Islands near Helsinki (Fin. Suomenlinna), designed to protect the city from the sea. As a result, the growth of the city began; The first stone houses appear. However, the capital of the Swedish Finland remained Turku (Abo).

The city was captured by Russian troops four times - twice in the course of the Great Northern War, in May and July 1713; August 24, 1742, during the Russian-Swedish War 1741-1743; February 18, 1808, during the Russian-Swedish war of 1808-1809.

Russian Board

In 1809, in the Friedrichsgam peace treaty, Finland joined Russia. Three years later, April 12, 1812, Alexander I announced provincial Helsingfors the capital of the Grand Principality of Finland. After that, the reconstruction committee was established, which was headed by Military Engineer Yuhan Albrecht Ehrenström (en: Johan Albrecht Ehrenström). He had to rebuild the parade capital of the Grand Duchy. The German architect Carl Ludwig Engel, who worked in Russia was invited to the position of architect of the Finnish capital in 1816. The development of the project was followed by Emperor Alexander I and his brother Nicholas, from here a noticeable similarity of the central parts of Helsinki and St. Petersburg. From this time, the rapid organized buildings of the city begins.

In the 1820s, Karl Ludwig Engel created a project to build a central part of the city. As a result of its implementation, there was, for example, the neoclassical ensemble of Shenatintori (Senate Square) with a magnificent cathedral. University was postponed from Turku in Helsinki.

During the years of the Crimean War, the city was shelling the Anglo-French squadron, not leading, however, to significant destruction.

In the 1860s, the first Finnish railway connected the city with Rihimäki and Tampere. The industry has grudgely developed. In 1870, the railway connected Helsinki with St. Petersburg.

The capital of independent Finland

After the proclamation of independence during the Civil War in Finland, the city was busy with the union of the Finnish Red Army, however, as a result of the offensive of General Mannerheim from Vaasa, supported by German troops, the city passed under the control of the bourgeois Finnish government.

After the end of the Civil War, the city continued to develop dynamically. His territory significantly expanded, new residential neighborhoods grew. Acquired a wide fame, for example, "Garden City" Tapiol (Fin. Tapiola, Swede Hagalund; Administratively subordinate Espoo).

In 1952, the Summer Olympic Games were held.

In 2007, the annual Eurovision Song Contest was held in the city.

Name

In Finnish, the city officially called Helsinki since the foundation (1550); In Swedish, he is still officially referred to as HelsingFors. In all other languages, the name "Helsingfors" was used for a long time (in Russian - "Helsingfors") before Finland became independent (December 6, 1917). And this is not surprising: until the end of the XIX century, the Swedish population was absolutely dominated in the city, although the population of the city in 1880 was only 43 thousand people.

Despite the formal submission of the Russian Empire after 1809, the Swedish-Finnish nobility retained its power in Finland and for a long time gave preference to the Swedish. In an effort to weaken the dependence on Sweden, the Russian authorities stimulated the development of the Finnish language, and the intensive migration of rural Finns to the city quickly changed the demographic and linguistic balance in the city in favor of Finns.

After 1917, the Finnish name of Helsinki was used. On the Soviet cards of the 20s - the beginning of the 30s, it was encountered, in accordance with the then transmission of foreign language [H], writing gessinki (writing gelsіnki in modern Ukrainian, where g is read [H]).

The Swedish-quality minority in the capital is maintained and today (6.2% of the city's population), and the Swedish language has the status of the official on a par with Finnish.

Relief

The city is located in the rocky area. Historical Center Cities are located on the peninsula with strongly cut coastline. Height differences in the city are significant, and the rocks are the usual part of the landscape. On rivers within the city there are waterfalls.

Climate

The climate of Helsinki is moderate, transitional between continental and sea. Winter is long and snowy, summer is cool and outside the calendar does not come out. Spring and autumn lasting and cool. Strong frosts are quite rare phenomenon, the heat in the summer above 30 ° C is almost never happening. Maximum precipitation is observed at the end of summer and throughout the autumn.

Population

In 2002, 305 196 people of working age lived in the city, of which 277,967 were working and 27,229 were unemployed, the unemployment rate was 8.9%.

The population (as of March 31, 2009) - 578,126 people. The share of the female population in Helsinki is 53.4%, which is above the average value of Finland (51.1%). Forecast population population: 2020 - 589,604 people, at 2030 - 597,640 people.

Language Composition

For a long time, Helsinki developed as a predominantly Swedish-quality city. In 1870, when Finland was part of the Russian Empire, predominant official languages In the city were: Swedish - 57%, Finnish - 25.9%, Russian - 12.1%; German (1.8%) and other (3.2%) were also used. By 1890, due to the start of mass migration of the Finnish peasants in the city, the Russian authorities' policies on maintaining and developing the Finnish language and partial assimilation of the Swedes, the ratio of languages \u200b\u200bwas as follows: 45.6% Swedish, 45.5% Finnish, 6% Russian and 2, 9% other.

Currently, two languages \u200b\u200bare officially recognized in the city - Finnish and Swedish, and 86% of the population of the city of Finnoaded, 6% of the Swedoxized, about 4% consider the Russian language and another 4% - other languages. (See also Russians in Finland).

In Swedish, the HufvudstadsBladet newspaper is released, there are 2 buffaling radio stations - Yle Radio Vega Mellannyland (with regional programs) and Yle Radio X3M, in addition, Swedish radio programs come out at the local radio station (Fin. Lähiradio, Swede Närradio). There are 2-speaking channels broadcast - Yle FST5 (free, owner - YLE) and SVT World (paid, owner - public broadcaster Sweden SVT); Other channels from Sweden are available in cable networks.

In Russian broadcast radio "Satellite".

Economy

In Helsinki there is a stock exchange founded in 1912.

Transport

In Helsinki act international Airports Helsinki-Vantaa, through which about 90% of flights on the territory of Finland and Helsinki Malmi.

Currently, research is conducted and work is underway to design a submarine railway tunnel between Helsinki and Tallinn. The estimated length of the tunnel is 60-80 km. The construction of the tunnel will require from 1 billion to several billion euros. Approximate deadline for 10-15 years.

At the end of 2010, it is planned to launch new trains between St. Petersburg and Helsinki, which will reduce the time on the way between cities to 3.5 hours

Sea transport

Helsinki is a major port, from where international passenger transportation is carried out throughout Baltic Sea.. Ferry company Tallink Silja, Viking Line, Finnlines, Stella Lines (steam Julia) provide regular year-round departures in Tallinn, Stockholm, Rostock, Lubeck / Travemunde, St. Petersburg. Tourists arriving on a ferry from Finland in St. Petersburg can be located in the Russian Federation without visas for 72 hours.

Public transport

Helsinki is clearly divided into two parts - the historical Western and more modern oriental (ITÄ-Helsinki, Östra HelsingFors) is a single subway line, as well as an extensive network of highways.

Public transport is also represented by trams (in the center and adjacent parts of the city), buses, suburban trains and municipal ferry cowpactory lines - Suomenlinna, Katayanokka - Suomenlinna and Khakaniami - Suomenlinna. Public transport in the city is managed by the city transportation of Helsinki (Fin. HKL, Helsingin Kaupungin Liikennelaitos, Swede Hst, HelsingFors Stads Trafikverk).

Citybike

In the warm season in Helsinki, the service of free public bikes is CITYBIKE. In the center of the city there are 26 coolants, on which anyone can take a bike on the bail of 2 euros. Movement on the CityBike bike is allowed only within the central part of the city. In 2008, it was planned to expand the service in the following years, but in 2010 the program was decided to suspend until 2012.

Education

Helsinki is the largest Helsinki University in the country, as well as a number of other higher educational institutions in which 64,128 students study (of which 38,454 at the university). A secondary education provides 190 schools, of which 22 private. All data are shown for 2003.

Museums

City Museum Helsinki. It has several branches, including two Summer Museum: Burger House and Museum of Power Station. They are opened only with the onset of the high tourist season. The entrance to both museum is free.
National Museum of Finland
Finnish National Gallery
museum of Classical Art Ateneum
museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma
Gallery Sinebrüchova
suomenlinna fortress
museum of Urho Keckonen Tamimi
museum of mail

Cultural centers

Cultural factory Korjaamo (Töölönkatu 51 +358 504 072 467) is located near the center of Helsinki. Located in the old tram depot, the factory Korjaamo is a complex consisting of galleries, theatrical and concert halls, shop, cafe and bar - and, of course, the tram museum. After opening the second building - the tram garage (Vaunuhalli) in June 2008. Korjaamo has become the largest cultural center in Finland. Exhibition activities, mainly specializing in photos and video art, is now running in three galleries, two of which are located in the new tram garage. Every year in the walls of Korjaamo Teatteri, the International Stage Festival is held, collecting the best modern theaters from around the world under its roof.

Main attractions

Assumption Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki.
Senate Square with the Cathedral Lutheran Cathedral of St. Nicholas (1852, Architect K. L. Engel), the University, the Senate Building and the Monument to the Russian Emperor Alexander II, who expanded the right of autonomous Finland and who gave it a constitution in 1863.
Assumption Cathedral (1868, Architect A. M. Gornostayev), Cathedral of the Finnish Orthodox Church, the largest Orthodox Church of Northern Europe.
Suomenlinna Fortress (until 1918 - Sveaborg), laid in 1748.
Zoo Korkeasaari is one of the northernmost and large world zoos.
Church Tempeliaukio, cut down in the rock, 1969.
In Helsinki, for the past 5 years, a music festival is held - Flow Festival
The largest water park "Serena" in Northern Europe

Scientific, industrial, educational and cultural center of the country. It was founded in 1550 by the King of Sweden Gustav Vaoy. For a long time, up to the 18th century, Helsinki remained a small town, mostly wooden buildings. However, in 1748, on the islands located near Helsinki, the Swedes begin to build the fortress of Svetorg to protect the city from the attack from the sea. This gives impetus to the further development of the settlement.

Helsinki seized four times Russian troops. Twice in May and July 1713 during the Great Northern War, then during the Russian-Swedish War of 1741-43 and in the Russian-Swedish war of 1808-09. During the Russian government, the rapid development of the city begins, which gave the similarity of the central part of Helsinki with St. Petersburg. In 1860, the first railway joined the Helsinki with Tampere and Rihimäki is being built in Finland. And in 1870 the railway was laid to St. Petersburg.

Helsinki is a city created for tourism, since most of its attractions are in close proximity to each other. The surroundings of the Senate Square is a unique architectural ensemble in the style of neoclassicism. It consists of four buildings built on the project of Karl-Ludwig Engel in 1822-1852: the building of the State Council, the Cathedral, the National Library and the main building of the University. In addition, the Senate Square is a monument to Emperor Alexander II of Walter Runeberg, 1894. The sculpture made from bronze stands on the pogs of red granite.

One of the main attractions of Helsinki is the Assumption Cathedral. Erected by the project developed by the Russian architect A.M. Gornostayev in 1886, he is currently the largest cathedral of Western and Northern Europe. The exterior of the cathedral is made in the pseudovizantine style and produces an indelible impression. It stands on a high rock, and from the site at the entrance to the cathedral offers a magnificent view of Helsinki.

The Cathedral, standing in the Senate Square designed by Karl-Ludwig Engel, was built from 1822 to 1852, simultaneously with St. St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg and has a lot of common with him.

It is not worth going around the attention and symbol of Helsinki - the Havis Amanda fountain, which translated from Swedish means "sea nymph". Made in 1905 in Paris, it was installed in Helsinki in 1908 and is an image of a young woman leaving the water. Located a fountain on another one sign place Helsinki - shopping area, on which all sorts of sweets and coffee can be bought all sorts of sweets and drink souvenirs.

In addition, Helsinki is a very green city: all sorts of parks, squares and gardens occupy a third of the total area of \u200b\u200bthe city. The most famous and oldest park Helsinki is a kaivopoulist. Many embassies are located in the park, including the United States and Russia. Beauty of the surrounding nature, the proximity of the sea, rocks, spacious green lawns made the park favorite place Rest citizens and guests of the city. In Samoa high point Park is a Urs Observatory. And on the nearest islands and the seashore, they expect their visitors to restaurants and cafes.

One of the oldest parks of the city, founded in 1812 for general use - Kaisani Park. The owner is owned by the owner of the restaurant Cayes Vlunda in the park. Restaurant, by the way, works to this day. The park itself flows smoothly into the Botanical Garden founded in 1829.

In addition, it is certainly worth visiting the fortress of Svetaborg (now Suomenlinna). Placed on Islands Not far from Helsinki The fortress was included in the list World Heritage UNESCO in 1991. Currently, on the territory of the fortress there is a naval academy of the Navy of Finland, several museums and a lung regime prison, which are supported by the fortress in proper condition. On the territory of the fortress there are museums: Martial Museum Manege, Erenmovyard Museum, Suomenlinna Museum, Museum of Toys, Customs Museum and Submarine "Wesseniko". Entrance to the territory of the fortress is free, however, for inspection of the exposition of museums will have to pay.

Particular attention should be paid to the visit to the Church Tempeliaukio, which is completely cut into the rock. One of the principles used in the construction of the church was the complete preservation of the surrounding landscape. BUT interiorFully cut in the rocky array is illuminated by the natural falling through the glass dome of the building light. The magnificent acoustic characteristics of the church led to the fact that it passes many concerts. She was consecrated in 1969, she visits more than half a million people a year.

In addition, in Helsinki, there is one of the largest and most northern Zoo of the world of Corkaceasaari and the Water Park "Serena", the largest in Northern Europe. In addition to Helsinki, a large number of theaters, cafes and restaurants, entertainment centers and other institutions created in order to brighten up the leisure of the tired tourist.

And visiting Helsinki in the summer, for the inspection of the historical part of the city you will be able to use the free bikes provided by 26 parking lots located in the city center, a deposit for a bike will be only 2 euros.

According to the English magazine "Monocle" Helsinki headed the ranking of the list of the best cities in the world in 2011. In the same 2011, Helsinki is recognized as one of the safest (after Luxembourg) of the cities of the world. And in 2012, the newspaper The New York Times gave Helsinki second place in the list of cities, which should be visited.

The harsh beauty of this located on the rocks of the city is able to hit the imagination and remember forever.

In 1550, the King of Sweden Gustav Vaz decided to establish a port face to face with rival in trading relations with Russia Tallinn. So Helsinki appeared and on June 12, the day of signing the decree, it is considered the birthday of the city. In 1641, to settle this locality, the king ordered several hundreds of minor towns west Bank To move to a new place - the territory of the current city district Arabia. However, it turned out that the place was chosen unsuccessfully - the harbor was too small, and as a result, the city was transferred to the area of \u200b\u200bthe current Caucpatori (Market Square). So Helsinki was postponed by 5 km south, to the tip of the ESNES Peninsula. After that, the development of the city was significantly slowed down due to permanent wars, plague and hunger. In the period 1713-1721, the Russian troops burned and occupied enslaved, the bloodless city was twice.

The expansion of the territory occupied by the city occurred in 1748 due to the vocabulary of Swedes on Islands near Helsinki Fortress Svetaborg (Fin. - Suomenlinna), designed to protect the city from the sea. The transformation of Helsinki to the Western Bastion was also in the interests of the King of France Louis XV, Turkey's ally. During the war with Napoleon I 1808/09 in the Friedrichsgam Peace Treaty, Sweden was supposed to give in Finland of Russia, as a result of this Finland became the autonomous Grand Dummy Finland as part of the Russian Empire.

On April 12, 1812, Emperor Alexander I declared provincial Helsingfors with the capital of the Grand Principality of Finland.
The administrative independence of Finland allowed it to preserve the typical northern administrative and legal system. This event has become a big political step forward for Helsinki. The provision of independence of Finland was an exceptional case in the history of Russia.
After that, the reconstruction committee was established, which was headed by Military Engineer Yuhan Albrecht Ehrenstrom. He had to rebuild the parade capital of the Grand Duchy. The German architect Carl Ludwig Engel, who worked in Russia was invited to the position of architect of the Finnish capital in 1816. The development of the project was followed by Emperor Alexander I and his brother Nicholas, from here a noticeable similarity of the central parts of Helsinki and St. Petersburg. From this time, the rapid organized buildings of the city begins.
In the 1820s, Karl Ludwig Engel created a project to build a central part of the city. As a result of its implementation, there was, for example, the neoclassical ensemble of Shenatintori (Senate Square) with a magnificent cathedral. In 1827, the only University of the country was postponed from the Turku in Helsinki. At the end of the XIX century, a small village became a modern European city.
In the Crimean War of 1853-1856, Helsinki was fired by the Anglo-French squadron, but this did not cause it significant harm.

The active development of the peninsula has begun, first of all, with the construction of the railway in 1862, which connected it with the inside of the country - Helsinki with Riichimäk and Tampere. Due to this, the Helsinki industry began to actively develop. And in 1870 the railway branch until St. Petersburg appeared. With the accession of Finland to Russia, neoclassical architectural ensembles began to appear in the capital.

In 1917, Centrobalt was located in the city. In addition, the leadership of the worker and democratic movement of the country operated here. Helsinki became the main center of revolutionary performances of 1905-1907, in particular, in support of the Sveaborg uprising, and later the Finnish revolution.
The independence of Finland was proclaimed in December 1917 - Helsinki became the capital of the Finnish Republic and the place of stay of the Secretariat of the World Council of Peace.
After the proclamation of independence during the Civil War in Finland, the city was busy with the union of the Finnish Red Army, however, as a result of the offensive of General Mannerheim from Vaasa, supported by German troops, the city passed under the control of the bourgeois Finnish government.
After the end of the Civil War, the city continued to develop dynamically. His territory significantly expanded, new residential neighborhoods grew. A wide fame acquired, for example, a city-garden Tapiol (Fin. - Tapiola, Swede - Hagalund; Administratively subordinate Espoo).

The beginning of the Russian-Finnish War (1939-1940) and its continuation (1941-1944) proved the courage of Finns and the right of a young state to independence. Despite the serious damage caused by the city as a result of the bombardment by the Soviet military aircraft, Helsinki, along with London and Moscow, was the only one in Europe in Europe, the capital of the country that took part in the war.

In the second half of the 20th century, Helsinki more than once became the center of international political life. For example, many international forums were organized here: World Assembly of the World (1955), World Congress for Peace, National Independence and Universal Disarmament (1965), Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (1975), World Conference for Termination of Arms Racing For Disarmament and discharge (1976), a meeting dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the CSCE (1985), the Summit of the Presidents B. Clinton and B. Yeltsin (1997) and many others. In 1952, Helsinki was honored to receive the XV Olympic Games.
The city acquired international significance, and new hotels, shops, sports facilities and cultural facilities appeared on its streets.

After Finland's entry into the European Union in 1995, the capital took the external border of the European Union and the so-called Schengen space. In 2000, the representative of Finland first became president of the European Union and in December of the same year in Helsinki passed the European Council.
In 2007, the annual Eurovision Song Contest was held in the city.

City name

In Finnish, the city officially called Helsinki since the foundation (1550); In Swedish, he is still officially referred to as HelsingFors. In all other languages, the name Helsingfors was used for a long time (Russian-Helsingfors) before Finland became independent (December 6, 1917). And this is not surprising: until the end of the XIX century, the Swedish population was absolutely dominated in the city, although the population of the city in 1880 was only 43 thousand people.

After 1917, the Finnish name of Helsinki was used. On the Soviet cards of the 20s - the beginning of the 30s, the distorted name - Helsinki (it is used in the modern Ukrainian language). Nevertheless, the Swedish minority in the capital remains and today (6.2% of the city's population), and the Swedish has the status of the official on a par with Finnish.